Planning for Japan

WNTMay 13, 2011

Abby Wambach tries to bend one around Hope Solo. It ain't easy to bend one around Hope Solo.

The U.S. team has had a solid week of training here in Columbus and will practice at Columbus Crew Stadium tomorrow in what will be the team's first appearance on the field since defeating North Korea there during the 2003 FIFA Women's World Cup. U.S. captain Christie Rampone and defender Heather Mitts are doubtful for the match with muscle strains.

The USA and Japan met at the beginning of March at the Algarve Cup in Portugal with the USA winning, 2-1, but with both teams preparing for the Women's World Cup, this game should prove entertaining for the fans in the stadium and on FOX Soccer (6:30 p.m. ET) on Saturday.

Japan is ranked fourth in the world and has quick, talented players all over the field. Japan's goal in Portugal came off a set play as Aya Miyama hit one of the most perfect direct free kicks you'll ever see, but the Americans took the win on goals from Amy Rodriguez and Megan Rapinoe.

Alex Morgan fires between Stephanie Cox and Rachel Buehler

Pia Sundhage does one of MANY interviews she will be doing before and during the 2011 WWC